Maȟpíya Lúta senior Layla Janis has been selected to the South Dakota Volleyball Academic All-State Team along with Black Hills Conference All Academic Team, an honor that recognizes student-athletes who excel both in the classroom and on the court. For Layla, who transferred to Maȟpíya Lúta for her senior year, this recognition carries special meaning.
“This is a big accomplishment for me.”
Layla shared that Academic All-State is her first major academic award, making the moment even more meaningful.
“This is a big accomplishment for me because I’ve never really been given an award for my academics at the schools I was at. Getting this in my first year at Maȟpíya Lúta feels good because I feel I am doing my part and fitting in very well here, especially in my academics.”
Despite it being her first and only season playing for Maȟpíya Lúta, Layla immediately made her mark, not only as a committed athlete, but as a dedicated student.
Adjusting as a Transfer
Transferring schools can be a difficult transition, but Layla says the Maȟpíya Lúta community made it feel natural from day one.
“My teammates made me feel very welcomed and made me feel like I had a place on the team. In school it was the same way, all of my teachers were very supportive and welcoming, and my classmates were very friendly and welcoming as well.”
Balancing Academics and Athletics
Earning Academic All-State requires a 3.5 GPA along with participation in volleyball, a challenge that demands focus and discipline. Layla says her success came from routines and habits she built over time.
“Some habits I have are staying organized and knowing what I have to get done ahead of time. Even with a busy schedule I always find time to finish my work, and I ask for help when I need it. My main habit is setting goals for myself and maintaining that goal without letting myself get upset if it is a low or high grade.”
Memories to Carry Forward
Though the team had a challenging season in the win-loss column, Layla says the experience was full of positivity and connection.
“I will always carry the memories from all the girls on the team with me because they are the first group of people I got to experience things with. Even though we didn’t win as as many games as we hoped this season, they never made it feel like we did. I’m glad to have met that group of girls my last season as they made the season very memorable.”
A Standout Student-Athlete
Maȟpíya Lúta celebrates Layla Janis for her leadership, effort, and academic excellence. Wóphila tȟáŋka, Layla, for representing Maȟpíya Lúta with pride in both the classroom and on the court.